"Here we are, three months past the filing date, and there are envelopes left unopened, undoubtedly containing checks," Gates said.

He said it was a disservice to the city and its residents, and that part-time staff should be hired next tax season to ensure the situation is never repeated. He said people's budgets could be affected by the delay.

"I know my wife and I get antsy if we have an outstanding check that goes 30 days without being cashed," Gates said.

Mayor Steve Schag agreed the situation should be handled as quickly as possible in the future.

State Street bridge

The extensive deterioration of the surface of the bridge on State Street that crosses the Black Fork River on the north end of town also was discussed.

Gates said he recently visited the bridge and notice more steel rebar is showing than ever before. The pavement is chipping away along the sides of the bridge, leaving a gap between the drive-able surface and the guardrail.

"There are some orange barrels there to keep people from driving off the bridge," Gates said. "I think there need to be more orange barrels."

Gates explained the bridge is owned by Richland County, so repairs are not the responsibility of the city.

"They have many bridges they need to replace," Gates said. "They've been very diligent over the years in getting funding."